Chapter 20: The Legendary Plasma Group

"Is this the mastermind behind Unova's infamous organization?" Green asked, puzzled. Having just arrived in Unova, she was unfamiliar with the Plasma Group's notoriety.

"Yes, that man calls himself N," Hugo explained. "He travels across Unova, acting like a melancholic prince, often chatting with Pokémon in an almost mystical manner. Strangely enough, wherever he visits, the influence of the Plasma Group spreads like wildfire..."

Before Hugo could finish, the landlady, Hilda, interrupted him. Her expression serious, she pointed to her long black hair under her cap. "Hugo... does this person have green hair?"

Hugo hesitated but eventually nodded. "Reports suggest it's green. There are photos online, though I can't confirm their authenticity."

Though Hilda seemed deep in thought, Hugo nonchalantly continued analyzing this so-called "dangerous individual."

"Possessing the ability to communicate with Pokémon, using them as an intelligence network; extraordinarily intelligent, particularly skilled in math and physics; the spiritual leader of the Plasma Group with a legion of loyal followers; and an ambition to change the world. Even the most clichéd Hollywood script couldn't craft a more dangerous criminal mastermind."

Hilda, however, seemed to have a different perspective and defended N. "I think you misunderstand him. I've met that man before. He's not inherently evil. In fact, we once worked together to stop unscrupulous hunters from poaching rare Pokémon."

"Maybe," Hugo conceded, "but that doesn't negate his undeniable connection to the Plasma Group."

Presenting the facts calmly, Hugo elaborated, "He may be a kind person as you claim, but remember, at least nominally, he's their leader. Every action the Plasma Group takes under his banner jeopardizes Unova's stability.

"According to informants within their ranks, most of the newer members were drawn in by this so-called prince's ideals. Among arrested extremists, 80% claimed they were inspired by Lord N, and one-third said they were willing to die for his vision."

Hilda fell silent, unable to refute Hugo's argument.

"The Plasma Group is unlike any criminal organization Unova has ever seen—ruthless yet hypocritically righteous. They lure trainers into abandoning their Pokémon, incite riots, and terrorize innocents. They've infiltrated high-ranking officials, seized control of media narratives, and inflamed social divides. Rumor has it they're conducting secret biological experiments tied to stolen Pokémon. I suspect there are unspeakable horrors behind their actions."

Hugo's tone turned grim as he addressed the two women before him.

"Their ambitions likely go far beyond money or fame. The Plasma Group has even begun orchestrating bank heists to test Unova's security forces, and the results so far have been disastrous. Their next moves will only grow bolder. If we don't stop them in time, Unova will face an unprecedented catastrophe."

Green couldn't help but recall the Rocket Team's reign of terror in Kanto two years ago—the three legendary birds above Silph Co. and the unshakable man behind it all. What horrors might Giovanni have unleashed if not for her and Red's intervention?

"So, what do you plan to do?" Green asked.

Hugo sighed and shrugged. "I'm compiling a report for trusted law enforcement and capable trainers. But without conclusive evidence, few will believe me."

Incidentally, the Sinnoh Champion had already used a badge-awarding ceremony as an opportunity to send Hugo's meticulously compiled report to the Pokémon League Headquarters.

While the headquarters took the champion's warning seriously, the Unova League, as the directly involved party, reacted with hostility. They dismissed the concerns as "unsubstantiated rumors" and "unwarranted interference in regional affairs," effectively suppressing the warning.

"Is there anything we can do?" Hilda asked eagerly. "I'm quite interested in this leader and want more solid proof to determine if he's good or evil."

"There's no such thing as pure good or evil," Hugo replied, throwing cold water on her enthusiasm. "I can analyze right and wrong, discern truth and lies, but distinguishing between kindness and malevolence is beyond me."

Green cut in sharply. "Anyone who uses Pokémon as tools to harm others is evil. That's indisputable."

"Exactly, Big Sis Green!" Hilda chimed in support.

"Let's not jump to conclusions..." Hugo murmured, clearly uninterested in debating further. He changed the topic. "For now, I don't have intel on the Plasma Group's next move. I'm just a private detective with no power or influence, currently in a financial crisis from adopting three freeloaders. I'm waiting for a wealthy client to walk through the door."

Hugo gestured toward the trio of Sinnoh starter Pokémon lounging nearby.

Hilda's eyes lit up as if recalling something. "Speaking of which, I do have a peculiar case..."

The word "case" instantly energized Hugo. "Please, entrust it to the Hugo Detective Agency!"

Standing dramatically before the two women, he rattled off his extensive list of services with unmatched fervor.

As Hugo launched into his spiel, the Sinnoh starters enthusiastically emerged from their hiding spots to assist.

Turtwig used its vines to retrieve cups and carefully scooped tea leaves into them. Piplup stood by the kitchen bar, conjured "Hot Water," and poured it into the cups with precision. Chimchar deftly carried the tray of steaming tea, gracefully leaping across furniture to serve the guests.

Hilda and Green were astounded by the remarkable coordination and dexterity of the Pokémon.

"Please, entrust your case to my agency," Hugo concluded his monologue, only to see the starters beaming proudly up at him.

"Bringing tea, huh? Good job." Hugo patted their heads, unaware of Hilda's disbelief and Green's bemused stare.

"Hugo, I thought you couldn't use Pokémon?" Hilda asked in a trembling voice.

"I still can't," Hugo replied plainly.

"Prove it. Piplup, use Water Gun."

Piplup puffed up its cheeks, crossed its fins, and tried its hardest but couldn't summon the move. Finally, after two minutes of straining, it gave up.

"See?" Hugo said.

But as Piplup lowered its fins, a sudden burst of water inexplicably drenched Hugo from head to toe.

"Still the same old Hugo," Hilda remarked, shaking her head in a mix of relief and exasperation.

Green scrutinized Hugo intently. Picking up the dejected Piplup, she asked, "Was that deliberate?"

"Pip... Piplup," it replied, shaking its head vigorously, looking equally confused.